The Best Optometrists in Wrangell, AK
Compare 3 verified eye care professionals in Wrangell. Read reviews, check credentials, and find the perfect optometrist for your vision needs.
Verified Eye Care Professionals
Dr. Mark P. Hamilton
Ketchikan Eye Clinic
Dr. Hamilton operates the premier eye care practice in Southeast Alaska, serving Wrangell residents through regular clinic visits and emergency care. With over 15 years of experience, he provides comprehensive vision care including advanced diagnostic testing, specialized contact lens fittings, and management of complex eye conditions. The clinic is known for its state-of-the-art equipment and personalized care approach, with many Wrangell patients traveling to Ketchikan for specialized eye care services. The practice maintains strong relationships with local healthcare providers throughout Southeast Alaska.
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Dr. Jeffrey D. Rice
Juneau Vision Clinic
Dr. Rice leads a well-established practice that serves Southeast Alaska communities including Wrangell. The clinic offers comprehensive eye health services with particular expertise in diabetic eye care and dry eye management. They utilize advanced diagnostic technology and maintain relationships with ophthalmologists for specialized care referrals. Many Southeast Alaska residents, including those from Wrangell, schedule appointments during travel to Juneau for business or medical needs. The practice is known for thorough examinations and detailed patient education.
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Dr. Thomas R. Walters
Juneau Vision Care Center
With nearly two decades of experience serving Southeast Alaska, Dr. Walters provides comprehensive optometric care to patients throughout the region, including Wrangell residents. The practice specializes in complex contact lens fittings and vision therapy, offering solutions for challenging vision problems. They coordinate care with primary care physicians and specialists across Southeast Alaska, making them a preferred choice for comprehensive eye health management. The clinic is recognized for its patient-centered approach and commitment to serving remote communities through coordinated care and travel arrangements.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many optometrists are available in Wrangell, and how do I find them?
Wrangell is a small, remote community, so the number of practicing optometrists is limited. Typically, eye care is provided by visiting optometrists who travel to the island on a scheduled basis or by the local health clinic. The best way to find current availability is to contact the Wrangell Medical Center or search for 'optometrist Wrangell AK' online, which will often list itinerant eye doctors and their upcoming clinic dates in town.
What should I look for when choosing an optometrist in a remote location like Wrangell?
Given the limited options, key factors include the frequency of the optometrist's visits to Wrangell and the range of services they can provide on-site. Look for a practitioner who offers comprehensive eye exams, has a good relationship with the local medical center for referrals, and can handle urgent eye issues. It's also important to check if they can order and fit contact lenses or glasses locally, or if you'll need to mail-order prescriptions due to the remote location.
Do optometrists in Wrangell accept my vision or medical insurance?
Insurance acceptance varies, especially with visiting providers. It's crucial to call ahead to the clinic or the optometrist's main office (often located in a larger city like Ketchikan or Juneau) to verify they accept your specific insurance plan. Be prepared to provide your insurance details. Due to Wrangell's remoteness, some billing might be handled off-island, so clarifying the payment process upfront is highly recommended.
Can I get a same-day appointment for an eye emergency in Wrangell?
For true eye emergencies, your first point of contact should be the Wrangell Medical Center's emergency department. They can provide initial care and, if necessary, coordinate with an on-call ophthalmologist or arrange for medevac to a larger facility. For urgent but non-emergency issues (like a sudden prescription change or a lost contact lens), contact the local clinic to see if a visiting optometrist has an upcoming slot or for advice on interim solutions until the next scheduled visit.
What eye care services are typically available from optometrists visiting Wrangell?
Visiting optometrists to Wrangell generally offer comprehensive eye exams, glaucoma testing, cataract evaluations, and prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses. However, advanced diagnostic imaging or certain specialty contact lens fittings might be limited. They often work closely with optical shops that can mail-order your frames and lenses. It's wise to schedule your appointment as soon as their clinic dates are announced, as slots fill quickly in small, remote communities.